PATRICK Hoban admitted it meant a lot to fire Oxford United into the Emirates FA Cup second round with two goals in a 3-1 win against Braintree Town last night.

The home side had to overcome terrible conditions as a gale battered the Kassam Stadium, while they also fell behind to a contentious penalty.

But after Liam Sercombe equalised before half-time, Hoban tapped in Kemar Roofe's cross and converted a spot-kick in the the space of 16 minutes to put the game beyond Braintree, who had a late penalty saved.

The Irish striker has struggled to score since signing 12 months ago, so was thrilled with the evening's work.

He said: "I would be lying if I said it wasn't a big deal, because it is for me to get some goals and the confidence up.

"(For the first one) it was a great run from Roofey and I was just there in the six-yard box, where I score most of my goals normally.

"Thankfully Sercs was off the pitch for the penalty so I got to take it, which I was delighted with."

The wind provided a big problem for both sides and United only really looked effective after the breaking when they played into the elements.

Callum O'Dowda had never played in worse conditions, which left players red-faced at times.

He said: "I don't mind the rain, but with this you ended up misjudging things.

"It does look bad, there were times when you go up for a header and it bounces just short, where you're left looking like a bit of an idiot."

The win netted United £18,000 in prize money and set up a home tie with Forest Green Rovers, which earns a £12,500 broadcast fee after being switched to Sunday, December 6.

They will be favourites to progress into the third round with the Premier League sides and head coach Michael Appleton acknowledged the financial rewards could have an impact on recruitment.

He said: "If we can get through as many ties as possible, maybe I can ask a question of the chairman and chief executive.

"Who knows, there might be an extra player come January.

"It was a good night, I think the best way to describe it was a professional job done."

The U's boss also confirmed centre back Johnny Mullins came off late on with a dead leg.

He will be assessed in the next 24 hours, but it is hoped he will recover in time for Saturday's trip to Dagenham & Redbridge in Sky Bet League Two.